Mentoring Programme

Across Manchester, there is a growing need to support young people in building the confidence, skills, and direction needed to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

In partnership with Shoosmiths and Nurturing Foundations

Our 6-month Mentoring Programme empowers young people aged 18–25 to grow into future leaders through a combination of leadership training, personalised mentoring, and real-world experience.
Each participant will be paired with a mentor who aligns with their goals and interests, creating a clear plan for developing key skills and applying them in meaningful ways.

Monthly sessions include leadership workshops and one-to-one mentoring, with progress tracked and celebrated through regular feedback and reflection.

From Roots to Results:
Cultivating Tomorrow’s Talent

Through partnerships with local employers via Nurturing Foundations, participants will also have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience placements that match their aspirations.

Workshops

Leadership development workshops covering communication, decision-making, advocacy, and emotional intelligence

Project Management

Project management training where participants learn to plan, budget, and deliver their own community initiatives

Peer Collaboration

Facilitated peer collaboration to co-design and implement meaningful campaigns and events

Mentorship

… from experienced leaders working in community development, youth leadership, and activism

Opportunities

… to lead and present at events, forums, and within their own schools or neighbourhoods

Youth School of Leadership

… to empower young people to become active citizens who can address local issues.

The change we hope to see

This programme empowers young people to lead change, aligned with:

Building Skills

Leadership, public speaking, planning, and advocacy skills are developed through real-world projects.

Personal Growth

Young people gain confidence in their voice, purpose, and capacity to lead.

Civic Responsibility

Core to the programme — participants design and deliver social action projects that respond to local needs.

Social Mobility

Leadership experience enhances CVs, builds networks, and opens new pathways into public, policy, and civic careers.

Wellbeing Support

Group discussions and mentoring support emotional resilience and belonging